As Police Scotland investigate the discovery of 6 dead roe deer in the Scottish Borders, the Scottish SPCA say poaching crimes are difficult to detect.

An enquiry is underway to confirm if any criminality is involved in the discovery.

"Deer poaching and deer coursing are national wildlife crime priorities. Any information we receive from the public on these matters is shared with the police National Wildlife Crime Unit.

"They are incredibly difficult crimes to detect, but we are always encouraging people to contact ourselves and the police with as much information as possible on any activity they have either witnessed or suspect.

"Information such as a car registration plate can be very useful, but more often than not the perpetrators are long gone and the only evidence remaining is the injured or dead animal.

"Anyone with information on deer poaching should contact the police or our Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999."